A retrospective study of the management of pediatric kerion in Trichophyton tonsurans infection.

Kerion celsi is the inflammatory extreme of tinea capitis, representing a delayed hypersensitivity reaction to the causative dermatophyte. Some authors have advocated the use of oral corticosteroids in patients with kerion formation to inhibit the host inflammatory response and minimize the risk of scarring. This retrospective study analyzed the management and outcome of all children younger than 10 years old presenting to our pediatric dermatology service with tinea capitis resulting in kerion formation between 2003 and 2009.

Ten cases of drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) treated with pulsed intravenous methylprednisolone.

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) is a rare, life-threatening, drug-induced illness characterised by a widespread polymorphic eruption, fever and multivisceral involvement. There is little published on the management of DRESS. Prompt recognition and withdrawal of the causative drug is essential, along with supportive treatment.

Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of the use of topical 10% potassium hydroxide solution in the treatment of molluscum contagiosum.

Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral infection of the skin that frequently affects children. Lesions take between 6 and 18 months to resolve spontaneously and are a source of great embarrassment to both caretakers and children, often affecting attendance at school and limiting social activity. Treatment options to date have been poorly tolerated by children but recent studies have suggested that potassium hydroxide may be beneficial.

Perceived stress, stress attributions and psychological distress in psoriasis.

Objective: The objective of this study was to measure causal beliefs in individuals with psoriasis and to explore their relationship with perceived stress, quality of life, psychological well-being and psoriasis severity.

Methods: This study was cross-sectional in design, and patients were required to complete validated questionnaires assessing perceptions of illness, quality of life, psoriasis severity, perceived stress and psychological mood. A total of 141 individuals were recruited from two settings: an outpatient skin clinic at King's College Hospital and the Psoriasis Association.